The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF), in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education, is organising the NHEF University Advancement Programme (NUAP) Workshop. This national capacity-building initiative aims to institutionalise professional advancement practices across Nigeria's federal universities.
Strengthening Higher Education Institutions
The workshop is part of broader national efforts to enhance the sustainability, resilience, and global competitiveness of Nigeria's higher education institutions. It was convened under the guidance of the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Maruf Alausa, and brought together representatives from federal universities nationwide for an intensive, practical learning experience.
Professionalising Alumni Relations and Fundraising
Speaking at the programme's launch in Lagos, Dr Anastesia Okaomee, Executive Director of the University Advancement Programme (UAP) at NHEF, explained that the initiative seeks to professionalise alumni relations, fundraising, and other advancement functions in Nigerian universities.
“We are building capacities, starting with the foundation of advancement training,” Dr Okaomee said. “We strengthen the capacities of fundraising, alumni relations, and marketing and communication professionals. This enables them to raise funds for their institutions and build relationships with alumni. Strong alumni investment is currently lacking in most institutions.”
She added that the long-term goal is to improve alumni engagement and increase financial support for universities, moving them toward financial sustainability beyond government subventions.
